Tag Archives: faith

Are You Smarter Than a Pharisee?

Posted on April 15, 2017 by expressyourself4him

Producer Mark Burnett teamed up with host Jeff Foxworthy in 2007 for the game show which challenged adults through the knowledge of kids.  Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader began on Fox and is now in syndication.  Like the classic Jeopardy, this entertaining show allowed viewers to see if they are dumber or smarter than the average 5th grade student.

Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.  “How can someone be born when they are old?” Nicodemus asked. “Surely they cannot enter a second time into their mother’s womb to be born!” – John 3:3-4

If television existed at the turn of the first century, perhaps Are You Smarter Than a Pharisee would have a caught on.  The first contestant approached Jesus at night, afraid of what his friends might think if seen interacting with Jesus.  Thus, in the cover of darkness, Jesus introduces Nicodemus to the concept of becoming born again.  Similar to the early rounds in Foxworthy’s show, the first few questions are suppose to be softballs.  Unfortunately, Nicodemus over thought this one, responding like a pre-schooler.

No one could say a word in reply, and from that day on no one dared to ask him any more questions, Matthew 22:46.

Shortly before Good Friday, religious leaders attempted to trick Jesus, hoping to catch him contradicting one of God’s laws.  Thus, one by one, shrewd individuals threw out brain teasers for Jesus to answer.  To their surprise, Jesus made quick work of various theoretical situations.  Finally, his opponents gave up, walking away in disappointment.  Unfortunately, few people understand the concept of wise, 1 Corinthians 2:5.  If this blog finds you like Nicodemus over analyzing life, may faith in Christ put you over the top so you will become smarter than a Pharisee.

by Jay Mankus

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Spoiler Alert

Posted on April 12, 2017 by expressyourself4him

As society evolves, new words arrive on the scene to define what’s really happening.  Such is the case of a spoiler alert, derived from someone watching a repeat of an episode, film or show.  Individuals sometimes memorize lines or think out loud, ruining a punch line before a first time listener can enjoy it.

“And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel,” Genesis 3:15.

While clergy, pastors and theologians may use lofty words, the Bible is full of spoiler alerts.  These clues are known as prophecy, a foreshadowing of what God is planning to do in the future.  Following the fall of mankind, also known as original sin, the author places a subtle hint in between the punishment of Adam and Eve.  The passage above promises to send someone a second Adam to restore that which was lost.

“For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost,” Luke 19:10.

A well known doctor echoes this point in the New Testament.  Luke issues this spoiler alert to his readers, highlighting purpose for Jesus’ life on earth.  Meanwhile, the disciple John shares another spoiler alert at the end of the book of Revelation.  The plot for life has been exposed, but the hardest part is the waiting for God’s prophecies to be fulfilled.  May faith carry you to the finish line or as show biz states, “the grand finale.”

by Jay Mankus

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Linger, Lust and Lost

Posted on April 8, 2017 by expressyourself4him

Drifting, hobbling or remaining idle are words which describe linger.  This state can lull people into a false sense of security.  Any type of prolonged visit here can stagger any sort of spiritual progress in the past.  I refer to linger as the first of 3 deadly L’s, laying the ground work for a crash, fall or prodigal act to follow.

Though he cannot bear to let it go and lets it linger in his mouth, Job 20:13.

The half way point on the road to destruction, Matthew 7:13, blends into linger.  Like a natural progression, lust is a byproduct of someone who is curious, distracted and side tracked.  Imagine a fish who is hungry.  Sure, fish realize the worm is on some sort of hook, but this craving leads to an irrational behavior.  If the tempter pulls as you take a bite, addiction is set in motion.

But each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed.  Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death, James 1:14-15.

In the parable of the prodigal son, Luke 15, a doctor makes an interesting observation of a lost person.  Luke compares this phase of life as an individual who loses their perspective.  This debilitating state leads unwitting souls to hit rock bottom.  Like a never ending abyss, people continue in a free fall until one comes to their senses.  If this blog finds you somewhere on the road to destruction, lingering, lustful or lost, may the Holy Spirit pull you back in the right direction toward the road to recovery.  Keep the faith as the Bible illuminates the way, Psalm 119:105.

by Jay Mankus

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Not Just Words…A Lifestyle

Posted on March 29, 2017 by expressyourself4him

Whether you are an athlete, co-worker or student, no one likes to be lectured by someone who does not practice what they preach.  While admonishing, correcting or rebuking an individual may have good intentions, when this act is carried out by a hypocrite, this conversation loses its meaning.  Subsequently, the purpose of any effort to illustrate what is right is lost by mere words.

But if anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for members of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever, 1 Timothy 5:8.

As a teenager pastor, Timothy struggled to earn the respect of older members of his congregation.  Understanding his frustration, the apostle Paul wrote Timothy a few letters to convince others of the correct course of action.  The verse above is meant to keep in line anyone who thinks they are above God’s law.  Thus, Timothy was encouraged to stress the importance of developing a godly lifestyle, not empty words.

All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work, 2 Timothy 3:16-17.

Over time, Timothy came to realize that the standard for life is the Bible.  This collection of books provides the confused, those stuck and uncertain with the answers necessary to move forward.  While there will always be those who challenge authority, the Word of God is the guiding light to lead the lost.  Wherever you are at this stage in life, may the Holy Spirit inspire you to become fixated on a Christ-like life style, not just words.

by Jay Mankus

 

 

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Take It or Leave It

Posted on March 22, 2017 by expressyourself4him

In recent years, those who live according to a secular worldview are claiming the Bible no longer applies to modern life.  Meanwhile, any law, principle or rule within the written Word of God is labeled as bigoted, discriminating and sexists.  Yet, if these skeptics actually took the time to read the Bible, individuals would begin to see the lofty expectations that exist.  Free will does not force anyone to adhere to these standards.  Rather, its up to you, take it or leave it.

If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that?  And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that?  Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect, Matthew 5:46-48.

The legal world uses an interesting term, plausible deniability.  This means that an individual can be excused from guilt, like a disclaimer or waiver.  The Bible uses a similar word to plausible deniability, amoral.  Moral refers to knowing what is right and doing it.  Immoral is the opposite, knowing what is right, but failing to obey.  Amoral comes into play when someone is held to a standard that they were never taught.  Subsequently, if you have never attended church, heard the gospel or read the Bible, you are only held accountable for that which you have been introduced.

For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord, Romans 6:23.

The purpose of this blog is to simplify the message of the Bible, take it or leave it.  The consequence of sin results in a guilty verdict from the jury.  The punishment for this crime is death, eternal separation from God.  However, the judge steps in to offer a special plea deal.  Actually, God is willing to pardon all offenders with one simple gift.  Jesus paid your bail in full, but the choice is yours, take it or leave it.  You can receive this as your own, taking ownership of faith.  You can reject it and so by live according to the world’s standards.  Or you can wait for a while, but either way, the clock is ticking.

by Jay Mankus

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Tears of Healing

Posted on March 5, 2017 by expressyourself4him

The gospel according to John was written for a specific purpose.  The Holy Spirit led the disciple whom Jesus loved to concentrate on a collection of miracles.  According to the book Master of All Trades, each miracle of Jesus demonstrates an unique God given power over death, elements, time and so on.  In one account, a man blind from birth experiences tears of healing after seeing his reflection for the first time in a nearby pond.

Jesus performed many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not recorded in this book.  But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name, John 20:30-31.

Due to a battle with iritis of the eye, my vision tends to come and go.  Some days I wake up and my sight is clear.  Other times I feel like I’m in some sort of fog.  Although there are many things I can’t control, my hope is in Jehovah-Rapha, the Lord who heals.  During a Raymond Lee Band concert last Saturday night, I was moved by a few songs.  As I was brought to tears, the water in my eyes served as a source of healing.  The rest of the evening my vision was completely clear like the healed blind man in John.

Jesus did many other things as well. If every one of them were written down, I suppose that even the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written, John 21:25.

At the conclusion of John’s gospel, he reveals the purpose of his book.  Whenever anyone gives a testimony or shares about an account of a miracle, faith spreads.  While some may never be an eyewitness, those who experience the supernatural instill hope within others.  Unfortunately, healing doesn’t visit everyone as Paul suggests in 2 Corinthians 12.  However, if you carefully examine the minor details within your life, perhaps your eyes will be opened to a miracle that can bring tears of healing.

by Jay Mankus

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Joe and Kay

Posted on March 4, 2017 by expressyourself4him

Last weekend, I attended a benefit concert for one of my former students.  While listening to the music, speakers and video, I am touched by the legacy these two students have left behind.  Joseph Feeley was a gifted athlete, solid believer and destined to play professional baseball or become a long drive champion.  Meanwhile, Kaylyn Warren was an aspiring actress in school plays, talented singer and godly leader.  Unfortunately, each were taken away, struck down by vicious cancers.

And there was a widow in that town who kept coming to him with the plea, ‘Grant me justice against my adversary, Luke 18:3.

Like the tribulations of Job, somethings will never make any sense.  Subsequently, those who endure horrific conditions are forever linked by time.  From an earthly perspective, parents, relatives and students were robbed of spending more time with their friend.  On the other hand, each were relieved of their suffering and reunited with God the Father in heaven.  Trying to comprehend the Lord’s grand design can be overwhelming.  Thus, for now, all I can grasp is that by dying, these two teenagers impacted their peers with a persistent faith.

I tell you, he will see that they get justice, and quickly. However, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth? – Luke 18:8

Over time, its easy to lose touch with the people you care about.  Yet, wherever you are, its crucial to find a ministry to poor your heart and soul into on earth.  Although, it may take some time to locate one that you believe in, God has a special place for you if you are willing.  Sure, there are distractions, trying to grab your attention.  Nonetheless, if you want to make an investment for eternity, remember the example of Joe and Kay so that others will be touched by your deeds when your time on earth runs out.

by Jay Mankus

 

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By Whose Standards are You Following?

Posted on February 26, 2017 by expressyourself4him

Context refers to the circumstances that form the setting for an event, statement, or idea, and in terms of which it can be fully understood and assessed.  However, if you enter a conversation which has already started, you might come away with a different perspective than those who were present at the very beginning.  Unless you take time to confirm your inclinations, you may be missing crucial details.  When information is passed off to second and third hand parties, context tends to get lost.  Subsequently, sloppy communication opens the door for alterations, exaggeration and gossip.

“Do not judge, or you too will be judged,” Matthew 7:1.

As a former Bible teacher, the verse above is one of the most misinterpreted passages in the Bible.  The media loves to quote this when their worldview is questioned.  The perception is that no one should be able to judge another person.  Yet, if you read ahead, you’ll find the point Jesus is trying to make.  Jesus is referring to hypocrites who judge others while doing the same exact thing.  As individuals remove the plank, the sin from their lives, they earn the right to correct others.  However, until this area is under control, no one is credible.

“God will judge those outside. “Expel the wicked person from among you,” 1 Corinthians 5:13.

The Bible refers to two standards for life, those inside the church and those outside.  God expects more from those who decide to follow Jesus.  Whenever I hear or see debates on television over Matthew 7:1, no one brings up the words of the apostle Paul.  As I introduced the principle above to my classes, the concept of expelling sinners brought outrage from some students.  The situation within the church of Corinth is at the final stage of the Matthew principle based upon Matthew 18:15-17.  Before you reach this point, the Bible encourages individuals to confront people face to face and with a few close friends if necessary.  If no progress is made and sin is full blown, this is where the church steps in as a last warning so to speak.  Like an alcoholic in denial, sometimes you have to walk away until prodigals see the error of their way.

If they still refuse to listen, tell it to the church; and if they refuse to listen even to the church, treat them as you would a pagan or a tax collector, Matthew 18:17.

Like a concerned parent, I can’t force my readers to believe what I do.  Rather, I try to point out the convictions on my heart.  In the end, you will live according to a certain set of standards.  These will likely be altered, chanced or modified along the way.  Nonetheless, may you carefully develop what you believe so that when attacked by outsiders, you will be able to defend what you know to be true.

by Jay Mankus

 

 

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Are You Sure About That God?

Posted on February 25, 2017 by expressyourself4him

From time to time, God will call his followers to step out in faith.  While this is expected to a certain extent, some requests go beyond logic.  Noah was asked to build an ark before rain existed.  A man plagued with stuttering, Moses, was urged to confront Pharaoh to let Israel go.  Meanwhile Joshua was encouraged to go into battle with a marching band of trumpets.  At some point I’m sure all three of these men likely pondered, “are you sure about that God?”

Now no shrub had yet appeared on the earth and no plant had yet sprung up, for the LORD God had not sent rain on the earth and there was no one to work the ground, Genesis 2:5.

The book of Hebrews emphasizes that its impossible to please God without faith, Hebrews 11:6.  James, the earthly brother of Jesus states that faith is dead without accompanied by action, James 2:26.  Perhaps, the reason why individuals are forced to step out in faith is that many people spend most of their lives dwelling within personal comfort zones.  Thus, God has to nudge and prod people to live by faith, not by sight.

For we live by faith, not by sight, 2 Corinthians 5:7.

Prior to the fall of Jericho, Joshua led his army to march around the walls of the city for six consecutive days.  At some point during this week, there must have been murmurs by soldiers, “when am I going to get my weapon?”  Although its not mentioned in the Bible, human nature causes individuals to doubt.  While not vocalized, Joshua needed to unite the troops on the final day, with something like “stop talking and march.”  Though you and I will have many more “are you sure about that” moments, may you fight through the urge to doubt by trusting God, step by step in faith.

by Jay Mankus

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Greater is He Who is In You

Posted on February 24, 2017 by expressyourself4him

One of Jesus’ disciples makes a power statement in a collection of small books known as the Catholic Epistles.  One specific letter written by John addresses the two opposing forces within this world.  The first, the Holy Spirit and latter the ruler of the air, Satan.  Although both are invisible, John wants to encourage those who may be fighting a losing battle that God is greater.

You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world, 1 John 4:4.

However, stating this and believing it are two different things.  Whether you’re an athlete, competitive or trying your best to survive, experiencing a series of failures can break anyone’s momentum.  The devil preys on doubt, planting seeds within minds to second guess God’s power and who really is in control.  Subsequently, even the confident go through periods of darkness, fighting inner demons which seek to attack your heart, soul and mind.

The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds, 2 Corinthians 10:4.

At some point, the disciples passes the Christian torch to the apostle Paul whose missionary journeys gave birth to churches throughout the Middle East, Europe and Africa.  According to Paul, the only way to stand your ground against the enemy involves changing your tactics.  Whenever faith begins to falter or wilt, taking every thought captive and making it obedient to Christ is crucial.  As soon as this discipline is put into practice, then and only then will you truly believe that greater is He who is in you than is in the world.

by Jay Mankus

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